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Low Impact Buildings-
​Greener Homes 

Pupils will experiment with eco - friendly buildings materials that have been used in developing countries or can be applied to projects in school or in the community. Pupils work with clay and sand, with earth bags, with willow, rammed earth and mini shingles. They will understand how an earth oven is built, how an earth bag arch can be made to carry their weight, how shingles are applied to a roof for maximum waterproofing and how to create an earthen wall.

With potential applications explained this is a chance to get really hands on and get a feel for the materials. Pupil’s will learn that they can handle materials effectively, working in groups and gain knowledge of simple eco-building processes.

A design activity can be included to link the tour with the hands on activity and help to focus ideas for sustainable community buildings.

Age Groups

Ideal for years 5 and 6 but year 4 can also enjoy the activities as part of a school eco topic. Allow 1.5 – 2 hours.

Back in the Classroom

Post visit activities could include:

• Building model eco houses to include some of the features seen on site. 
• Research on the internet the building techniques; earth bag building, rammed earth, building with cobb, wooden shingle roofs, round wood timber framing, sustainable architecture.
• Make an earth oven back at school. 

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 Eco house model made by       pupil from Liphook Primary  School.

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Curriculum Links:

• Human and Physical Geography KS2 - Types of settlement and land use, economic activity including trade links, and the distribution of natural resources including energy, food, minerals and water.
• Design and Technology KS2 - Investigate and analyse a range of existing products.
• Design and Technology KS2 - Use research and develop design criteria to inform the design of innovative, functional, appealing products that are fit for purpose, aimed at particular individuals or groups.
• Design and Technology KS2 - Apply their understanding of how to strengthen, stiffen and reinforce more complex structures.